I have a system built ready to hit the order button. Just wondering if I need to spend lots of extra dollars to have a top processor. I will be using Cubase with large orchestra templates from Hollywood Diamond.

I am going 64GB Ram, 2x 1TB SSD, separate sound card, Graphics card for dual high end monitors. One system I have built is 4400 with a Core i-9 7900x

The same system but with a less powerfull processor such as 6850k is about 2800.

I am flexible on budget and would like a degree of future proofing but realize that desktops rarely last much beyond 5 years and don't want to spend money I don't need to spend. What is the sweet spot for processors for my needs?

* Personally, I would go with an i7 7700. It has plenty of juice, and will save you a few bucks.

* Skip the fancy lighting

* No need for a high end video card unless you plan on doing major graphic work. I used to run dual displays right from my motherboard's video connections (scoring to picture). I would see if there are less expensive video card options that support multiple displays.

* That primary drive is huge. You could save a few dollars by making that a 512GB, or even 256. If you are running Hollywood Diamond, you'll probably need an additional SSD...that would be your primary plus two sample drives. You could even install a 7200rpm for less demanding libraries.

* I would definitely skip the soundcard, that Creative Labs Sound Blaster is not intended for DAW use. Go with an inexpensive USB interface such as a Steinberg UR22 or Scarlett 2i2.

* I would also skip that network card, the ethernet on the MOBO will be fine.

* There should be enough USB ports on the MOBO, no need for the USB expansion card. You could always get a powered hub if you need more ports.

* Skip the speaker system and get yourself some near field reference monitors. There are quite a few economical choices out there.

* Are you sure they're 28" monitors? I'm seeing 27". You can always shop around, monitors are relatively inexpensive. I recently found a 27" LED monitor at best Buy for $179.

Anyways, these are just my opinions. There are a lot of forum members who know a ton about processors, etc, hopefully they will chime in. Good luck with whatever you go with! I'm sure you'll create some great music.

The CPU is around 1200 and is the bulk of your costs. Memory will run you another 600 or less and the motherboard probably <400. 1TB 850 evos are around $300, and everything else is peanuts. If you don't want to spend unnecessary money, don't go with a prebuilt system, especially with high end components. They always mark them up with a hefty premium.